The Hills Have Eyes is a 2006 American horror film directed by Alexandre Aja, serving as a remake of Wes Craven's 1977 film of the same name. Co-written by Aja and Grégory Levasseur, the film stars Aaron Stanford, Kathleen Quinlan, Vinessa Shaw, Emilie de Ravin, Dan Byrd, Robert Joy, and Ted Levine. The plot follows the Carter family, who become the targets of a group of cannibalistic mutants after their vehicle breaks down in the New Mexico desert near a former nuclear testing site.
The narrative begins with the Carter family traveling from Cleveland to San Diego for their silver wedding anniversary. While taking a shortcut suggested by a gas station attendant, they encounter trouble when their tires are punctured by a hidden spike strip. As they attempt to find help, they are stalked by grotesque mutants who have been deformed due to nuclear testing conducted by the U.S. government. The film explores themes of survival, family dynamics, and moral dilemmas as the family fights for their lives against these horrific adversaries.
Critics have noted that The Hills Have Eyes is not for the faint of heart, featuring graphic and realistic violence that includes brutal attacks on both humans and animals. The film's intensity is heightened by its disturbing imagery and sound design, which creates a tense atmosphere throughout. Many viewers found the performances compelling, particularly Aaron Stanford's portrayal of Doug Bukowski, who undergoes significant character development as he transforms from a timid individual into a fierce protector of his family.
The cinematography by Maxime Alexandre effectively contrasts the stunning desert landscape with the dark and claustrophobic environments inhabited by the mutants. The film was initially rated NC-17 for its gruesome violence but was later edited to achieve an R rating for its theatrical release. An unrated version was subsequently released on DVD.
Overall, The Hills Have Eyes received mixed reviews but is often regarded as a successful remake that pays homage to the original while introducing new elements of horror and tension. Its exploration of human nature under extreme circumstances and its commentary on societal issues resonate with audiences looking for more than just conventional slasher fare.